We came here from a beautiful Western Sydney rainforest property nearby and wanted to use some of the incredibly different plants here, some of which grow naturally in Hawkesbury’s forests. We have an interest in native foods, and were surprised how many have been used as bush tucker by First Nations people.
We set about building a native garden first, then added some plants we like to use for tea, fruit and flavourings. Our microclimates dictate that many of these grow more happily in the backyard, as do our more traditional veggies and fruit. Plants like banksias and native hibiscus which are used for flavouring drinks like our better drained front area, and the plants whose fruit we like to add to dishes like the back. I have labelled the ones we use the most. Aboriginal peoples don’t have the plants in a designated garden, so we have followed that model for bush tucker. Herbs, veggies and fruit are mostly in specific areas though, as they need specific conditions.
Plans for the future involving learning more about the ways Aussie plants can be used in the kitchen, and continuing to enjoy the benefits of indigenous teas which are very therapeutic.
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